Writing for a Higher Purpose

By Nick Daniels

It is said that you'll know that you are a writer if you cannot not write. There is a passion, an invisible hand that forces you to put your words on paper (or screen).

This is true in my case, besides the fact that I enjoy writing. But as the years pass and I've been more involved in ministry and international missions, I've realized there is more to my calling as an author than spending my life dreaming characters and plots.

I want to write not just to be a communicator of truth or provide clean entertaining. Certainly not for money and fame. I want to make an actual difference in the life of people. A difference like feeding the hungry, healing the sick, bringing hope to the hopeless. The gospel of Jesus in action.

That's why I'm so excited about the new partnership between my publisher and an organization that serves orphaned children. Below is an excerpt from the announcement:

Risen Books has partnered with Holt International, a Christian organization that finds and supports permanent, loving families for children who are orphaned, abandoned or separated from families, or at serious risk of separation. Holt is a world leader in international adoption and child welfare programs that enable children to have families of their own.

For every book sold through Risen’s online store, the publisher will donate a portion of the proceeds to Holt International to aid children in need.

“We at Holt are so pleased by our new partnership with Risen Books,” says Kim Brown, CEO and president of Holt International Children’s Services. “We truly applaud their commitment to help us serve orphaned, abandoned and vulnerable children around the world.”

The founders of Risen Books have been sponsoring children through Holt since 2006. “Holt shows God’s love for humanity by caring for these precious children,” says DP Martinez, senior editor at Risen Books. “We want to raise awareness of their labor and invite our readers to get involved, not only by buying books but by sponsoring children.”

Learn more about Holt International Children Services and how to give at HoltInternational.org.

I have decided to join this cause by amending my contract with Risen Books so that I won't receive any royalties for the sale of my new book, The Jihad's Messiah, but for that money to go to Holt International instead.

I've found a higher purpose for my writing, thanks to the work of Christ on the cross. He died for me so I may have eternal life and communion with God. Now I want to follow his example and live my life for the benefit of others. I invite you to do the same.

Nick Daniels' newest novel, The Jihad's Messiah will be released in September 2011, but you can pre-order it (and help orphaned children in the process) at www.risenfiction.com/store.